Will Leonard leave Penny and 'Big Bang Theory' on finale?

Let the speculation begin! CBS on Friday revealed the story line for the season six finale of "The Big Bang Theory," and it looks like the gang is going to be in for a bit of a shock.

Cliff Lipson / CBS / Today

CBS revealed that on the season six finale, Leonard (Johnny Galecki, left) will receive an overseas job offer that surprises Penny (Kaley Cuoco) and Sheldon (Jim Parsons).

"Sheldon and Penny are thrown for a loop when Leonard is offered an exciting job opportunity overseas," the network's release reads.

There's no hint as to whether or not Leonard (Johnny Galecki) will accept the position, but he hasn't exactly been shy about jumping at great career opportunities in the past. Remember when he presented research at a conference despite Sheldon's (Jim Parsons) very strong objections in season one's "The Cooper-Hofstadter Polarization"? (Best geek fight in the history of TV!) Or when he left crush Penny (Kaley Cuoco) behind to go on a three-month expedition to the North Pole in season two?

CBS' blurb suggests that Leonard's roommate and girlfriend will both be surprised by his latest opportunity. Will Penny be shocked that the man who worships the ground she walks on would consider leaving her now that they've been a couple since season five? Will Sheldon be astonished that Leonard, whom he considers to be intellectually inferior (then again, who isn't when compared to the great Sheldon Cooper?), would obtain what he thinks is a fab opportunity far beyond Leonard's skills?

And there's this to consider: If Leonard accepts the overseas job, will he be gone just for the period between the end of season six and the kickoff of season seven? Or could this be a permanent position and the end of Leonard on "Big Bang Theory"? OK, maybe not the latter, as Galecki's contract goes through season seven. But if he does take the job, perhaps Leonard will Skype in to check on the gang, the same way his ex-girlfriend Priya stayed on the show when she moved back to India.

But let's hope there's more Leonard rather than less next season. Fans will find out when the finale airs on May 16. "Big Bang Theory" airs Thursdays at 8 p.m. on CBS.